Gillett optimistic about grand prix

Donington Park chief executive Simon Gillett is "100% certain" the East Midlands circuit will host the 2010 British Grand Prix despite ongoing doubts over the financial viability of the project.

A £100million revamp of the circuit has stuttered amid the global economic downturn and Gillett on Tuesday faces a crucial vote by North West Leicestershire District Council, who are to review their decision to grant planning permission for the proposed changes.

Despite the mounting problems, Gillett on Tuesday insisted the redevelopment of Donington remains on track, telling BBC Radio Five Live: "Between 100 and 101% we're still going to make sure the grand prix will be here. We have had some trials and tribulations but I'm sure the grand prix will be here next year."

Gillett's plans were thrown into further doubt last month after legal proceedings were issued by the circuit's owners, Wheatcroft & Son Limited, who are seeking £2.47million in rent arrears from Gillett's company, Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd.

Gillett, who last year struck a 10-year deal with F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to stage the British GP, was set to confirm plans at the end of March for a debenture scheme to raise funds but they have been put on hold.

The stalling of that scheme has given further fuel to Gillett's critics, who believe the timeframe to transform Donington into a world-class facility is unrealistic.

Gillett, however, remains "very positive" the debenture scheme will bear fruit, adding: "We should have some answers on that one soon."

He added: "I'm concerned about the British Grand Prix - we're here to save it not jeopardise it. We entered this knowing what we had to do - we knew we had mountains to climb.

"It makes me and the team more determined. We are 110% committed to make it happen and 100% certain it will happen."